The incident began when the Melbourne Police Department received a call at 6:20 a.m. Monday for a domestic disturbance on Pineapple Avenue.

“Upon arrival, officers spoke to the female victim who told them she and her boyfriend had a verbal argument that escalated into violence,” said Melbourne Police Lt. Cheryl Trainer.

“She stated that he had threatened her with a kitchen knife, deprived her of the ability to call 911 by taking her cell phone, and held her against her will inside the apartment.”

According to Lt. Trainer, the victim eventually fled on foot to a neighbor’s house where she was able to call for assistance and meet with responding officers. Officers attempted to speak to the suspect, however, he verbally engaged officers from inside the victim’s apartment and made mention that he would not leave the residence without a fight.

“The Melbourne SWAT team and Crisis Negotiation Unit were called to the scene to assist,” said Lt. Trainer. “Pineapple Avenue was blocked from Cliff Creek Drive up to Riverdale Drive while attempts to contact the suspect were ongoing.”

Lt. Trainer said that attempts to communicate with the suspect failed, but it was believed the suspect was barricaded inside the residence.

“Chemical agents were introduced into the home and the residence was searched, but the suspect was not located,” said Lt. Trainer.

“It is believed that the suspect was able to flee the residence prior to additional officer response. There were no other occupants in the residence during the incident. The Melbourne Police Department is appreciative of the community cooperation and patience during this lengthy situation.”

If you have any information about this incident of Dudley-Palmer, call Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).